NGO Registration
Setting up an NGO in India is one of the most effective ways to contribute to social welfare. Formalize your mission with our expert guidance.
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In 2025, the registration process has become more digitized and transparent, making it easier for visionaries to formalize their mission. This comprehensive guide covers everything from the fundamental definition of an NGO to the specific documentation required for registration.
What is NGO Registration?
An NGO (Non-Governmental Organization) is a voluntary group of individuals or a legal entity that operates independently of the government, primarily for social, charitable, or developmental purposes.
NGO Registration is the legal process of formalizing this group under Indian law. Without registration, an organization is merely an informal group and cannot enjoy legal protections, own property in its name, or receive tax-exempt donations.
Importance of NGOs in India
NGOs serve as the backbone of social development in India, often reaching where the government or private sectors cannot.
- Social Equality: They advocate for the rights of marginalized groups, including women, children, and tribal communities.
- Bridging Service Gaps: NGOs provide essential services like healthcare, education, and sanitation in remote rural areas.
- Policy Advocacy: Many significant Indian laws (like the RTI and RTE) were born from the persistent advocacy of NGOs.
- Disaster Response: They act as rapid-response teams during natural disasters, providing immediate relief and long-term rehabilitation.
Benefits of NGO Registration
Registering your NGO unlocks several legal and financial advantages that are essential for long-term sustainability:
Separate Legal Entity
The NGO becomes a distinct legal "person." It can own property, open bank accounts, and enter into contracts in its own name.
Tax Exemptions (12A & 80G)
Registered NGOs can apply for Section 12A (tax exemption) and Section 80G (donor tax deductions).
Corporate Funding (CSR)
Eligible for CSR funds (2% of corporate profits) with a CSR-1 certificate.
Foreign Funding (FCRA)
Prerequisite for applying for the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) license.
Types of NGO Structures in India
In India, you can register an NGO under three primary legal frameworks. Choosing the right one depends on your scale and governance preference.
| Feature | Trust | Society | Section 8 Company |
|---|---|---|---|
| Governing Law | Indian Trusts Act, 1882 | Societies Registration Act, 1860 | Companies Act, 2013 |
| Minimum Members | 2 Trustees | 7 Members | 2 Directors |
| Best For | Charitable/Family-run | Associations/Clubs | Large-scale/Professional |
| Governance | Managed by Trustees | Democratic (Elected Body) | Structured (Board of Directors) |
| Credibility | Moderate | Moderate | Very High |
The Process of NGO Registration
Selection of Name and Structure
Decide whether you want to be a Trust, Society, or Section 8 Company. Choose a unique name that does not infringe on existing trademarks.
Drafting Constitutional Documents
- Trust: Draft a Trust Deed on stamp paper.
- Society: Draft a MOA and Bye-laws.
- Section 8: Draft MOA and AOA in prescribed MCA formats.
Application Filing
Trusts at Sub-registrar, Societies at State Registrar, Section 8 via MCA portal using SPICe+ form.
Verification and Certificate
Registrar reviews documents and issues the Certificate. Section 8 also gets a license from Central Govt.
Documents Needed
Personal Identification
- • PAN Card: Mandatory for all Indian citizens.
- • Aadhaar Card/Voter ID: Address verification.
- • Passport Size Photos: 2-3 copies each.
Office Address Proof
- • Utility Bill: Electricity/Water bill (< 2 months).
- • NOC: From landlord if rented.
- • Rent Agreement: If not owned.
Post-Registration Requirements
Once the registration is complete, your NGO must fulfill these immediate tasks to become fully operational:
- PAN & TAN: Apply for the organization's unique tax identification numbers.
- Bank Account: Open a current account in the NGO's name.
- NGO Darpan: Register on the NITI Aayog portal.
- Tax Certifications: File for 12A and 80G on the Income Tax portal.